TIGERS EXTEND CONFERENCE SUCCESS WITH 93-74 VICTORY AGAINST THE BEES

BOURBONNAIS, Ill. — Olivet Nazarene University (19-4, 11-2) defeated St. Ambrose University (12-9, 6-6), 93-74, at McHie Arena, capitalizing on 17 steals and a 25-point lead late in the fourth quarter.

Olivet started strongly, establishing control early with a balanced offensive attack. Brooklyn Marshall's early layup attempt was followed by a quick transition, leading to Caroline Sikkink opening the scoring with a layup at 8:47, assisted by Brookelynn Buzzard. The home team maintained a consistent scoring pace, highlighted by Ava Mikesell's two 3-pointers, including one at 5:40, assisted by Lindsey Nell, to extend their lead.

Despite the Bees managing to tie the game briefly at 7:27, the Tigers responded with a decisive 8–0 run. Nell's 3-pointer at 4:26, assisted by Mikesell, further extended their lead. Sikkink closed the quarter with a layup at 0:46, giving Olivet a 24–12 lead after the first quarter.

The Tigers extended their lead significantly in the second quarter with a strong offensive display, highlighted by a 3-pointer from Mya Skelton at the 00:07 mark, pushing their advantage to 22 points. Key contributions came from Jayden Flagg and Nell, each connecting from beyond the arc, which helped sustain their momentum. The Tigers capitalized on second-chance opportunities, outscoring the Bees 12-8 in points off turnovers, and maintaining control with a 55-33 lead at halftime.

Olivet opened the third quarter with a significant lead and maintained their momentum despite some defensive challenges. Abby Wolter from the Bees hit a 3-pointer at 9:36, but Olivet's defense held firm, with Marshall scoring a layup shortly after to keep the home team ahead. Sikkink's 3-pointer at 7:59, assisted by Calee Biedron, extended their advantage to 60–43.

The Bees made efforts to close the gap, with Payton Calouette and Caitlyn Thole contributing points in the paint. However, the Tigers responded effectively, highlighted by Skelton's 3-pointer at 3:37. The quarter concluded with Olivet leading 72–59, and the game ended with the home team securing a victory Olivet extended their dominance in the fourth quarter, highlighted by Flagg's early three-pointer at 9:44, assisted by Biedron, which set the tone for the quarter. Biedron contributed significantly with a steal and layup shortly after, pushing the lead further.

The home team maintained control, with a notable 25-point lead at 5:20, thanks to Flagg's second three-pointer. Olivet outscored the Bees 21–15 in the quarter, concluding the game with a strong 93–74 victory.

Nell led the team with 14 points, making six field goals and recording six steals. Flagg contributed significantly by scoring 15 points, including five 3-pointers, and collecting seven rebounds. Biedron added 13 points, shooting 6-for-9 from the field, while also grabbing eight rebounds and dishing out five assists. Sikkink finished with 16 points, converting five field goals and making five free throws.

The Tigers are now 19-4 overall and 11-2 in conference play. The Bees hold a 12-9 overall record and are 6-6 in conference competition.

–ONU–